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Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, ECTB 201-17a, 1995 Feb; :1-45

An in depth study was conducted at Tuchman Cleaners Shop 27 (SIC- 7216), Fishers, Indiana to evaluate control of exposure to perchloroethylene (127184) (PERC) from a refrigerated, dry to dry machine with a secondary control device consisting of local ventilation through a small, activated carbon canister, energized when the machine door was opened. Exposures were measured for three of six workers. All of the personal air samples taken showed that exposure was below 25 parts per million (ppm). The operator of the machine had the highest PERC exposure, 18 to 19ppm time weighted average on various days. Exposure was higher in the morning than in the afternoon. Exposures for pressers were between 1 and 7ppm. During machine loading, the average exposure was 846ppm. During machine unloading, the average exposure was 271ppm. No liquid solvent leaks were detected. A respirator was present but was used by the operator only in the event of a spill. Maintenance personnel did wear a half face respirator with organic vapor/acid gas cartridges when changing filters. The authors recommend specific measures to lower the exposures, including the use of local exhaust ventilation. Personal protective equipment should be used during spotting, waterproofing, and maintenance activities.